4 Choices of January Birthstone | Kamayo Jewelry 4 Choices of January Birthstone by Deomar Pandan What is the birthstone for January? As a matter of fact, the right question would be, what are the birthstones for January? There are all in all four birthstones of January, the first month of the year. What are the different January birthstones? Here we list the 4 types of January birthstone. Ancient Italian & Russian: Garnet & Red zircon Tibetan: Emerald By her who in this month is born No gem save garnets should be worn; They will ensure her constancy, True friendship, and fidelity. — Gregorian birthstone poem Garnet is the most widely accepted birthstone for January. Garnet is the traditional as well as the modern January birthstone. Garnet was also consistently designated as the gemstone for January in the ancient Roman, Italian, Polish, Russian, Hebrew, Arabic and old Hindu (Ayurvedic) calendars. Before the gemstone was made the birthstone of January, garnet was the zodiac stone for Capricorn and Aquarius, both falling partly on the month of January. Garnet is a valuable gemstone cherished since antiquity.

While most expensive in its green variety called demantoid, garnet is most commonly a red gemstone. Accordingly the color of garnet regarded as stone for January is the red garnet, which comes from several garnet species, namely, almandine, pyrope, spessartine, andradite and grossular. This January gemstone is believed to bestow strength and protection. The January stone is also regarded as a symbol of friendship, exchanged between friends to express affection, and in the hope that they would meet again in the future. Zircon in different colors, including red Source: Rob Lavinsky, iRocks.com – CC-BY-SA-3.0 Red Zircon Zircon is a transparent gemstone that makes excellent substitute to diamond. While most popular in its blue color, zircon also occurs in red, in which case the gemstone is called hyacinth, or jacinth. This red zircon is the birthstone for January in the ancient Italian and Russian calendar. While hyacinth is the red variety of zircon, this January birthstone may also hold traces of yellow. The January stone is believed to enhance peace of mind, as well as bring prosperity.

An emerald ring with diamonds on the side Source: gemteck1, CC BY 2.0, via flickr Emerald Emerald is the birthstone for January in the old Tibetan calendar. This January birthstone is the green variety of beryl, and is, not only one of the most expensive gemstones in the world, but is also among the only four gemstones regarded as precious stones in the modern day. This birthstone of January is prized mostly for its color, the verdant green. When beryl occurs in a color beside green, the gemstone would be called by a different name — aquamarine when blue, for instance, and heliodor when yellow — and the stone would be accordingly less expensive. The January gemstone, emerald, is believed to bring well-being, as well as stimulate clairvoyance. Ruby the red precious stone Source: Humanfeather via Wikimedia Commons Serpent Stone Serpent stone is the birthstone for January in the Hindu calendar. The identity of this January birthstone is rather dubious.

Some say that the name serpent stone refers to ruby, which would make sense; since ruby is the birthstone for Capricorn — which falls partly on the month of January — and is a gemstone that is red in color, similar to the other birthstones for January, namely, garnet and red zircon. Others, however, insists that serpent stone is just that, serpent stone, better known as black stone or snake stone. This January stone consists of black animal bones believed to heal snake bites. January Birthstone Color What color is January birthstone? Given the limited choices of birthstones for January, and how they are definitively described by color, January birthstone color is undoubtedly red, specifically deep red. Garnet, the foremost birthstone for January, occurs most commonly as red stones, and is widely thought of as red since ancient times. The next January gemstone, hyacinth, is also a red gemstone. Indeed, there is no doubt that the primary birthstone color of January is red. If a secondary color of January birthstone has to be named, that would be green. Emerald, the birthstone of January in the old Tibetan calendar, is green.

The foremost January gemstone, garnet, likewise occurs in green, and is in fact most valuable in its green variety called demantoid. Serpent stone is in itself an uncertain gemstone; hence, using the birthstone for January in the Hindu calendar to determine the January stone color would present more questions than answers. Which January birthstone is your favorite? Garnet Birthstones Guide by Month | Learn gemstone colors for birthdays Contact Us Birthstone Jewelry Guide Birthstones are gemstones that accompany a birth month, each having a unique meaning and historical significance. The popularity of birthstones dates back to ancient times when civilizations believed that gemstones had incredible powers such as luck, health and prosperity. Traditionally, each month is associated with a single gemstone, but as you’ll find below there are a few months with multiple birthstones. The birthstones associated with birth months today are not necessarily the same ones that were used in ancient times. In those days, color was the most important feature of a gemstone so they did not distinguish between gems the way we do today. For instance, they did not distinguish between a Ruby and a Garnet. Our list represents the modern birthstone list endorsed by the American Gem Society .

Gifts of gemstone jewelry with a loved one’s birthstone are very popular because of the desire to wear beautiful color as well as something which has personal significance. You don’t need to become a gemstone or birthstone expert to find the perfect gift. Whether you’re looking for a gemstone ring adorned with the birthstone of a child, or a beautiful set of birthstone earrings , we’re here to help! Birthstones by Month Birthstones by Month | Your Birthstones by Month, Color & Sign Labradorite: Natural Birthstone of February and March Labradorite is a variety of feldspar of beautiful blue, grey, green, or yellow color or a combination thereof. The most important property of this stone that it shows a physical phenomenon called labradorescence. Labradorescence is a nice display of a rainbow colors as the light rays refract and interfere over the different planes on the surface of this stone. The attractive color flashes of Labradorite can be compared with the color of the most attractive butterflies in the world. That’s why the alternative name of labradorite is spectrolite. Metaphysical: Labradorite is a stone of protection and mystical powers.

It is […] Birthstones by Day, Hour, and Season Stones have always been a part of the religious and spiritual beliefs of the ancient peoples. Many ancient traditions used them as symbols, tokens, and talismans, in their everyday life as well as in their magical or religious ceremonies. One typical example are the twelve breastplate stones of the High Priest, as described in the book of Exodus in the Old Testament. Each of the 12 stones was associated to one of the 12 tribes of Israel. The breastplate (Hoshen) contained four rows of gemstones distributed in the following order: in the first row there were Ruby, Topaz, and Aquamarine; […] April Birthstone Diamond and Its Meaning April is honored with Diamond as its one and only birthstone. Both the Modern and the Traditional Birthstone Lists reflect this fact. The Month of April features two zodiac signs: Aries and Taurus. If you are born in either one of them, Diamond is your personal birthstones. However, it is good to know, that the Mystical Birthstone List, associates Carnelian with Aries and Rose Quartz with Taurus.

In the following we will turn our attention only to Diamond’s physical and metaphysical properties, because Diamond is one of the most widely recognized birthstones of April. In fact, the American National Association […] December Birthstones — Turquoise, Zircon, and Tanzanite December is honored with three birthstones, Turquoise, Zircon, and Tanzanite. Each of the stones of December has one of a kind attributes that make it both important and alluring. The Modern Birthstone List includes Zircon and Turquoise, whereas the Traditional List leans more toward Tanzanite, with some interpretations including also Ruby. In the following we will investigate the physical and metaphysical properties of the three most widely accepted birhtstones of this month. Just for the record, the Month of December features two astrological signs: Sagittarius and Capricorn. If you are under either one of them, check the info below to select […] November Birthstones — Topaz and Citrine People conceived in November are honored with two Birthstones, the venerated Topaz, and the tender, recuperating Citrine. The traditional, mystical, and modern birthstone charts all agree about the main stone for November: Topaz.

The additional birthstone of this month, however, is a subject of disagreement. The modern chart claims it is Citrine, the traditional puts more emphasis on Pearls, whereas the mystical chart believes it should be Chalcedony. In this text, we will restrict our discussion to Topaz and Citrine as the most important and most widely accepted birthstones of November. In case you are not familiar with Astrology, the […] Pink Tourmaline — Main October Birthstone The traditional and modern birthstone charts fully agree when it comes to the stones designated as October Birthstones: Pink Tourmaline and Opal. Tourmaline is even the spiritual birthstone of Libra. Both Tourmaline and Opal extremely radiant stones, and can be very expensive… especially Opal of gemstone quality. The Month of October is a host of two astrological signs: Libra and Scorpio. If you are either one of them, read on for more info on your potential personal stone.

The Spiritual Birthstone of Libra Regardless of color, Tourmaline is the spiritual birthstone of Libra according to the the spiritual birthstones chart […] The Sapphire Destiny: September Birthstone Depending on the particular interpretation of birthstones, we have quite a few September birthstones. The list includes Sapphire, Lapis lazuli, Peridot, Agate, Zircon, Moonstone and Sardonyx. Sapphire is the birthstone of September according to the Modern interpretation. The Traditional chart indicate Lapis lazuli as the main September birthstone. Zircon is the main birthstone in the Vedic interpretation, but in the Modern interpretation Zircon is a stone of the month of December. The mystical birthstone of September is Citrine. In the following, we will consider only the most important September birthstone, Sapphire. Our Spiritual Purpose Human beings have each been created […] The Meaning of the Most Popular July Birthstones There are several important July birthstones, including Ruby, Sapphire, Carnelian, Onyx, Sardonyx, and Turquoise, all depending on the interpretation of birthstones in question. The two Zodiac signs that can be found in the month of July are Cancer and Leo, with Cancer having the larger share of this month.

If you are born in either one of them, check this article to find what crystals, potentially, might be the best choice for you. Ruby One of the most esteemed gemstone of July is Ruby. In fact, the modern chart designates this gemstone as major birthstone for July. It is also […] June Birthstones, their Meanings and Symbolism There are several June birthstones, depending on the actual birthstone interpretation chart. Some authors enumerate as many as 10 stones that correspond to this month. The modern interpretation of birthstones includes Pearls, Moonstone and Alexandrite as the stones characteristic for month June. The second most popular interpretation, the traditional chart, speaks of Cat’s eye, Turquoise, Agate, and Alexandrite. Here, we will focus our attention to Alexandrite, Pearls, and Moonstone, as the modern classification suggests. The two Zodiac signs that share the month of June are Gemini and Cancer. Therefore, if you are born in either one of these signs, read […] Emerald — the Birthstone For May According to the modern chart of birthstones, Emerald is a birthstone gemstone for May. If we take a look at the traditional birth gems chart, the May birthstone would be Agate.

On the other hand, the spiritual interpretation (Mystical Birthstones by Olga Rezo) associates Rose Quartz with the month of May. In the Ayurvedic system, Emerald is associated with planet Mercury. In the following we are going to consider the modern chart of gemstones, and talk about Emerald. If you like, you can explore the other gemstones associated with the month of May. For example, if you are a spiritually […] August Birthstone Peridot According to the modern interpretation, Peridot is a birthstone gem of August. If we consult the traditional birth gems chart, however, the August birthstone is Sardonyx. Yet the spritual classification (Mystical Birthstones by Olga Rezo) associates Rock crystal with the month of August. In this post we will mainly use the modern chart of gemstones, and talk about Peridot. Feel free to explore the other recommended gems. This is especially true if you are a spiritually inclined person, in which case you should consider using Rock crystal in parallel with Peridot. March Birthstone Aquamarine – the Queen of the Sea While the traditional birthstone chart relates Bloodstone and Jasper to the month of March, the modern chart associates Aquamarine to this month.

Therefore Aquamarine is widely regarded as a March birthstone. If you are born under the Zodiac signs of Pisces and Aries, chances are your lucky stone is Aquamarine. Aquamarine belongs to the family of the mineral Beryl. Aquamarine’s color, like the color of the sea, can be of various shades of blue. Its closest relative is Emerald, the green variation of Beryl. Notable occurrences are in India, Russia and Brazil. Amethyst – February Birthstone The modern birthstone chart assigns Amethyst as February birthstone. In the same way, the traditional chart of birthstones also relates Garnet to the month of February. So, if you are born under the Zodiac signs of Aquarius and Pisces, your stone is Amethyst. People born in the sign of Pisces could also have Aquamarine as their birthstone. However, as a mystical birthstone, considering the spiritual powers of this crystal, we believe that it is suitable for virtually all signs of the Horoscope. Amethyst is a wondrous crystal. It has been used ever since the times of Cleopatra, who used to […] Garnet – January Birthstone The modern birthstone chart assigns Garnet as January birthstone.

Similarly, the traditional birthstone chart also indicates that Garnet should be considered a January birthstone (that is, a birthstone of Capricorn and Aquarius). Garnet is a stone with pronounced metaphysical properties. Some people use Garnet for astral travel, aura purification, clairvoyance, attaining cosmic consciousness, psychic communication, and transcendental meditation. It can also be used in healing. Garnet is one of minerals that humans have used since the Bronze Age. It has been used both as a precious stone and as abrasive. It is a good communication stone, […] Jonathan's Jewelers January - Garnet Hardness: 7-7 1/2 Red garnet, called almandine garnet, is what we typically think of for a January birthstone. However, garnet comes in many colors. Pyrope is red with a brown or cinnamon tint to it. When it has a tint of violet it is called rhodolite garnet. Spessartite garnet is orange with red or brown in it. Grossular can be green, yellow or copper-brown. Tsavorite, which is a brilliant green, is a popular grossular garnet variety.

Demantoid garnet is the most valuable garnet and is a nice emerald green. Garnet is found worldwide in the almandine and rhodolite varieties. February - Amethyst Hardness: 7 Amethyst is the most popular and valuable member of the quartz family. Look for a nice deep, transparent purple with flashes of red and blue. The darker shade is more desirable but it can be commonly found in a lilac color. Siberia and Brazil are the best color sources. Amethyst is common worldwide. Sunlight or ultraviolet light can cause amethyst to pale in color. March - Aquamarine Hardness: 7 1/2 - 8 Aquamarine is the blue variety of beryl. Medium to light aquamarine may be more common, but a darker ocean-blue color is more valuable and striking in appearance. Aquamarine can be found in intense teal tones, but over the years aquamarine is heated and the green is removed. The most popular color now is baby blue. Demand for a particular color can impact a stones' history. Aquamarine was rarely heated but now the baby blue shade is so popular that the natural color is rarely seen.

Common mining locations include India, Brazil and Nigeria. It can be found worldwide. April - Diamond Hardness: 10 Diamond is, of course, the most valuable and highly-sought after gemstone. It is also very rare. When someone says "diamond", a white diamond is what immediately comes to mind, but diamonds also come in a rainbow of colors such as yellow, pink, green, blue, red and purple. Natural varieties of the "fancy" colors are extremely rare and therefore, very valuable. Diamond and natural zircon have the best brilliance and dispersion of light compared to other gemstones. This quality is the stones' ability to bend light and return a variety of colors back to the viewer. Diamonds can vary drastically in value, even with two similarly appearing stones. When purchasing a diamond, always get a full explanation of the four C's and how they impact the price. May - Emerald Hardness: 7 1/2 - 8 Bright, kelly green is the color of emerald. It is the green member of the beryl family and is the most precious of the group. Very transparent qualities are quite rare and valuable. Emerald commonly contains inclusions and this is widely accepted.

Inclusions in emeralds are sometimes called "jardins", a French word for garden because the inclusions themselves sometimes look like a garden. The best emerald comes from Colombia, with Brazil, Namibia and Zimbabwe being other high quality producers. Common synthetics are in the marketplace and are not always easily distinguishable from genuine emeralds. June - Alexandrite Hardness: 8 1/2 lexandrite is a color change gemstone in the chrysoberyl family. Incandescent/fluorescent light will show different colors. Ideal quality shows green to red while more commonly the color changes from dark teal to purple. Natural alexandrite is very rare and highly prized. Russia and Burma are premier sources but Brazil, Sri Lanka and Madagascar have produced some wonderful examples. June Alternative - Pearl Hardness: 3 - 4 Pearl is commonly accepted as a birthstone for June as well. It is the only gemstone created by a living creature. White, pink and black Akoya cultured pearls are the most popular for their color, shape and high lustre. South Sea and Tahitian pearls are the most valuable and golden pearls are the rarest color.

Chinese freshwater pearls are gaining in popularity as they are increasingly being created in the typical round shape. They can be found in a variety of colors such as white, pink, grey, black, and the ever increasingly popular "chocolate" (brown) pearls. Care should be taken when wearing pearls as they are prone to damage to the nacre from chemicals in perfumes and hair products. July - Ruby Hardness: 9 Ruby is the red variety in the corundum family. After diamond, it is the next hardest gemstone. It is commonly included and like emerald is accepted. It is often heated to remove silk like inclusions. This is an acceptable practice in the trade and has been done for hundreds of years. Burmese ruby is the highest quality but the supply is intermittent due to recent political issue. Star rubies are usually more opaque in color and have a six-point asterism which creates the star effect. August - Peridot Hardness: 6 1/2 - 7 Peridot is the gem quality stone from the mineral olivine. A nice deep apple green color is probably the most prized but peridot can also be very light in color or a deep olive green.

It is not a very durable stone so care should be taken when worn on a daily basis. The finest peridot comes from Burma with Arizona, China and Venezuela showing differences in color in the olive tones. September - Sapphire Hardness: 9 Sapphire is a member of the corundum family of gemstones. The finest sapphire comes from Kashmir. The hue is a royal blue with almost an electric charge coming from within the stone. Blue is the most common color of sapphire but it can be found in a rainbow of colors such as white, yellow, pink, green and purple. Pink sapphires come in a variety of shades with bubble-gum pink being very desirable. Other mining locations include Burma, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Madagascar and Montana. October - Tourmaline Hardness: 7 - 7 1/2 Tourmaline is an increasingly popular gemstone that can be seen in a rainbow of colors such as light yellow, orange, pink, green, blue, brown and black. Watermelon tourmaline is a bi-color variety in pink and green. Paraiba is the rarest with pastel colors in a variety of hues. The most sought after is called "swimming pool blue" - an electric bright teal blue.

This color is also found in parts of Africa. New Englanders may be interested to know that tourmaline is currently still being mined in Maine. Many in the gem and jewelry trade feel tourmaline is an underrated stone. October Alternate - Opal Hardness: 5 1/2 - 6 1/2 Opal is a gemstone, that unlike others, is not of crystalline material. Opal is partially comprised of water and could be best described as a solidified silica gel. The rainbow iridescence opal provides is what makes it desirable. Opal is seen with different base body colors. White which is semi-translucent, black which is usually opaque and dark or boulder opal which has a solid base formed from sediment. The finest opal is mined at Lightning Ridge in Australia. It is also found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Mexico. November - Topaz Hardness: 8 Historically, the November birthstone is golden topaz but because of it's rarity, blue topaz or citrine is often used as a substitute. Precious topaz is gold with a slight pink hue. Imperial topaz is peach with pink and orange and is considered to be the finest color topaz.

Topaz colors are typically light and are sometimes heated to intensify their color. Brazil is where golden topaz is mined and blue topaz is widely found. December - Blue Zircon Hardness: 6 1/2 - 7 1/2 Blue zircon is the most popular birthstone for December though turquoise has also been used. People sometimes believe that zircon is not a natural stone, confusing it with cubic zirconia. Blue zircon is teal blue and it becomes more valuable with the absence of green. Due to the intense blue combined with it's light bending capabilities, blue zircon can look like blue diamond. Zircon can also be found in earth tones such as yellow and brown. It is mined in Nigeria, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Brazil. Zircon also comes in many different colors and is often found in diamond mines. Birthstones - Harrisburg,PA Birthstones The Origin of Birthstones The history of birthstones involves the lives of many historical figures as precious stones are seen as signs of Power, Wealth, and Luxury. Itâs uncertain how the specific months became connected with the various stones.

However, some speculate that their origins date back to biblical times when the breastplate belonging to a priest was decorated with 12 assorted colored gems. The idea was proposed that each of the gemstones had special powers associated with the corresponding astrological sign, and that wearing these stones at the right time would have therapeutic or talismanic benefits. This started the tradition of wearing a colored stone each month as a sort of good luck charm. Initially people wore all twelve stones, rotating according to the month of the year to derive the greatest benefit of each stone. Believing that the various gems held magical powers for the individual born within a given month, people started to wear the stone associated with their birth month for the entire year. In 1912, the American National Association of Jewelers designed a list dedicating different gems to various months. What was once thought to be controversial based on its commercialism is now widely accepted as the official birthstone list. January Birthstone: Garnet Garnet, the January birthstone, is named from the Latin word "granatus" meaning 'seedlike'. This stems from the fact that garnet crystals in their host rock appear in shape and color of pomegranate seeds.

Although the color red is seen most frequently, there are many different colors and shades of Garnet. Garnets can also be found in colors such as green, yellow, and orange. Garnets were often used in the crowns of Kings and Queens, and a favored jewel of religious leaders. This gemstone was also believed to protect and preserve the honor and health of travelers. All of these powers of garnet were believed to be doubled for those born in the month of January. February Birthstone: Amethyst Amethyst is a member of the Quartz family which is the most common mineral on our planet. The most valuable member of this family, and birthstone for February, is the Amethyst gemstone. Since purple is considered a royal color, Amethyst enjoyed a historical importance as an insignia of power. The colors of Amethyst range from purple, violet, to pale reddish violet. Amethyst gets its name from the Greek work meaning "not to intoxicate". It is said that wearing amethyst, guards you against drunkenness and to instill a sober mind. March Birthstone: Aquamarine Aquamarine is the modern day March birthstone.

Bloodstone is sometimes considered an alternate birthstone for March since it is the zodiac stone for Aries (Mar 21- Apr 20). Aquamarine is a variety of the Beryl family and ranges in color from almost colorless pale blue to green blue or teal. The name Aquamarine is derived from the Latin words meaning Water and Sea, and has a long tradition as the sailor's lucky stone. The Greeks and the Romans knew aquamarine as the sailor's gem, ensuring safe and prosperous passage across stormy seas. Legend has it that aquamarines were the prized possessions of mermaids and thus would protect sailors from danger, including warding off sea sickness. April Birthstone: Diamond Diamond, the birthstone for the month of April, is the hardest natural substance known. It is also the anniversary gem for the 10th and 60th years of marriage. Since diamonds are composed of one single clement, they are the purest of all gemstones. Diamonds are traditionally linked to love, and both endure forever because of diamond's eternal strength. The name diamond is derived from the Greek adamas, which means invincible. Diamonds were discovered in India in 500 B.C.

Today, the gem quality diamonds are used for fine jewelry and engagement rings. The industrial grade diamonds are used mainly for cutting and polishing. The formation of diamonds requires very high temperatures and pressure. The conditions occur in limited zones of the earth's mantle. Diamonds that have come to the earth's surface generally range from approximately 1 billion to 2.3 billion years old. (See Diamond Education for more information.) May Birthstone: Emerald Emerald is among the most popular and most expensive of all gems. It is a variety of the Beryl Family. Emeralds intense green color has given this precious gem its important status throughout the centuries. The color of emerald is yellowish-Green to Green. The light green form of Beryl is not referred to as emerald, but rather green beryl. Emeralds are almost always some what flawed, or what Gemologists call 'Included'. These unique natural characteristics are usually other minerals trapped inside the Emerald. Emerald, a symbol of rebirth, is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. It is also believed that emeralds will cure you of bad health, healing a variety of illnesses and insuring good health for the wearer.

June Birthstones: Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite PEARL Pearls are unique as they are the only gem created by a living sea creature. They require no cutting, faceting, or polishing to reveal their natural beauty. Unlike all gems the pearl is an organic matter derived form oysters and mollusks. A natural pearl only occurs once in 15,000 mollusks. Due to this and the desire for pearls, highly skilled technicians began to put a nucleus or piece of mantle tissue into mollusks to help them produce a pearl. This process is called "culturing." In the early 1900s, the first successful commercial culturing of round saltwater pearls began. Since the 1920s, cultured pearls have almost completely replaced natural pearls in the market. MOONSTONE The third birthstone for June is the Moonstone. It was given its name by the Roman natural historian Pliny, who wrote that moonstone's appearance altered with the phases of the moon. Since earliest times, Moonstone has been a tangible connection to the magic of the moon - an amulet of protection for travelers, a gift of lovers for passion, a channel for prophecy, and a path to wisdom.

Moonstone is a phenomenal gemstone that displays a floating play of light, called Adularescence. They are believed to encapsulate within the stone a spirit whose purpose is to bring good fortune. This gemstone is part of the family of minerals called Feldspar. Moonstone occurs in many igneous and metamorphic rocks and comes in a variety of colors such as green, blue, peach, and champagne. Moonstone has long been known for its calming, soothing qualities on the emotional body. ALEXANDRITE "Ruby by Day, Emerald by Night" Another birthstone for June is a very rare phenomenal gem called Alexandrite. Alexandrite was first discovered in Russia in 1831 during the reign of its namesake, Czar Alexander II, and is an extremely rare chrysoberyl with chameleon-like qualities. The most sensational feature about this stone, however, is its surprising ability to change its color. Green or bluish-green in daylight, alexandrite turns a soft shade of red, purplish-red or raspberry red in incandescent light. This unique optical characteristic makes it one of the most valuable gemstones of all, especially in fine qualities.

Since the discovery of alexandrite, the gemstone has been thought to bring luck, good fortune and love. It is also said to strengthen intuiion, creativity, and imagination. Alexandrite encourages romance. It is also said that through the stone, joy enters the lives of people with too much self-discipline. The stone reminds us of our purpose in life and our origin. It gives hope to those who are in despair about their lives. It brings strength and constantly reminds them of the light. With its changing color, it is a reminder that life is not only what it seems to be. July Birthstone: Ruby Ruby is the red variety of the Corundum family (All other color variations of Corundum being referred to as a Sapphire). Rubies range from pinkish, purplish, orangey and brownish reds, depending on the chromium and iron content of the stone. In order for corundum to be a "Ruby", it has to have the right tone of color. Most Gemologists expect a medium to medium dark color tone, naming any tone lighter than that, a pink sapphire.

Rubies arouse the senses, stir the imagination, and are said to guarantee health, wisdom, wealth and success in love. It is harder than any natural gemstone except diamond, which means a ruby is durable enough for everyday wear. It is the traditional wedding anniversary gift for a couple's 15th and 40th year. To the ancients, ruby was known as "the king of gems". To some it was a representation of the sun. To others it represented integrity, devotion, happiness, healing, courage, romance, generosity, inspiration, and prosperity. August Birthstone: Peridot The word Peridot is derived from the Greek word "faridat " which means "gem". The peridot (pronounced pear-a-doe) is a pale green variety of chrysolite and used as the birthstone for August. Peridots are one of the few gemstones that come in only one color. The depth of green depends on how much iron is contained in the crystal structure. Peridots are often referred to as "poor man's emerald". Peridot is said to host magical powers and healing properties to protect against nightmares and to bring the wearer power, influence, and a wonderful year.

September Birthstone: Sapphire Sapphire, the September birthstone, has been popular since the middle ages and, according to folklore, will protect your loved ones from envy and harm. Sapphires have been worn by royalty throughout the ages as a symbol of good fortune, virtue, wisdom and holiness. Princess Diana and Princess Anne both received sapphire engagement rings and the British Crown Jewels are full of large blue sapphires, the symbol of pure and wise rulers. Sapphire is a variety of the gem species corundum and occurs in all colors of the rainbow. Pink, purple, green, orange, or yellow corundum are known by their color (pink sapphire, green sapphire). Ruby is the red variety of corundum. It is also the traditional wedding anniversary gift for a couple's 5th and 45th year. October Birthstones: Opal and Tourmaline OPAL Opal is without doubt one of nature's most remarkable gems. Opal is a chameleon of a thousand colors. It has the essence of every gem combined into one. Opal, October's birthstone, is recognized as one of the most precious gems in the world.

The name Opal derives from the Greek Opallos, meaning "to see a change of color." Opals range in color from milky white to black with flashes of yellow, orange, green, red, and blue. An opal's beauty is the product of contrast between its color play and its background. It was only in the 1960's that a team of Australian scientists analyzed opals with an electron microscope and discovered the causes of opal's unique optical properties. It was discovered that small spheres from silica gel caused interference and refraction, which are responsible for the unbelievable play of colors. Most opal is more than 60 million years old. They are extremely unique; no two are exactly a like. Opal is an organic, "living" stone, which means it must be protected from heat and detergents that dry out this gem. It is said that Opals stimulate healing and increase friendship and healthful emotions. TOURMALINE Tourmaline has become a favorite gemstone among jewelry designers, and gem collectors all over the world. Since it is available in a wide variety of colors, it is ideally suited to almost anyone's taste.

Tourmaline also is known for displaying several colors in the same gemstone. These bi-color or tri-color gems are formed in many combinations; gemstones with clear color distinctions are highly prized. One multi-color variety is known as watermelon tourmaline, and features green, pink, and white color bands to resemble its namesake. This gemstone has an endless number of faces, and for that reason it suits all moods. No wonder that magical powers have been attributed to it since ancient times. In particular, it is the gemstone of love and of friendship, and is said to render them firm and long-lasting. November Birthstones: Yellow Topaz and Citrine YELLOW TOPAZ Topaz is a gemstone available in a rich rainbow of colors. Prized for several thousand years in antiquity, all yellow gems in antiquity were called topaz. Most topazes are naturally yellow or brown, and this is the classic November birthstone color. The most prized color of topaz is called Imperial topaz after the Russian Czars of the 1800s and features a magnificent orange body color with pinkish undertones. Topaz was believed to counteract poison and instantly quench the heat of boiling water.

All these magical powers were supposed to increase or decrease with changes of the moon. CITRINE Many people have come to know and love this stone under the name gold topaz, although in actual fact it has very little in common with the higher-quality gemstone topaz. Citrine is a yellow-to-golden member of the quartz mineral group. A deep golden variety from Madiera Spain can resemble the costly imperial topaz gem stone, which is one reason that citrine is a popular birthstone alternative to those born in November. Citrine is known as the "healing quartz". This golden gemstone is said to support vitality and health while encouraging and guiding hope, energy and warmth within the wearer. Citrine can be found in a variety of shades ranging from pastel yellow to dark brownish orange. December Birthstones: Tanzanite, Blue Topaz and Turquoise TURQUOISE Turquoise is the oldest and most popular of December's birthstones. It was found on artifacts dating back 5000 years, in ancient Egypt, Sumeria and Mesopotamia.

Its name means "Turkish Stone" in French because that's where the first deposits of turquoise were first found in the ancient world, before the first mines in Egypt. Turquoise ranges in color from sky blue to green. Very often, to enhance this color, jewelers use a lair of wax coat of the gem which means that the color is not permanent. BLUE TOPAZ The second of the modern December birthstones is Blue Topaz. Its name comes either from the Sanskrit word "tapas" which means fire, the symbol of love and fidelity, or the Greek word 'topazos' which means "green gemstone". As a precious stone, Topaz became known only in the classical era. In the middle ages, the name topaz was used to name any yellow gemstone. Only later did it receive its proper destination, describing the current stone. In its pure form, Topaz is colorless. However, skilled jewelers can turn it into just about any color with a little treatment, such as green, pink, blue and pink. TANZANITE In 2002, the American Gem Trade Association officially added tanzanite to the modern list of birthstones for the month of December.

Discovered in the late 1960s in Tanzania, and found exclusively in this tiny area of the world, tanzanite exhibits a rich violet-blue color for which the gemstone is treasured. Colors range from blue to purple, and tanzanites that are medium dark in tone, vivid in saturation, and slightly violet blue command premium prices. Pennsylvania Jewelers Association 4075 Linglestown Road #261 , Harrisburg, PA 17112 800-523-1106 Gemstone 101: birthstone meanings Gemstone 101: birthstone meanings Jun 14 The mystery behind where birthstones came from and the meaning behind each gem dates back to the breastplate of Aaron, which is mentioned in the Bible. It is from this passage that gemstones' cultural meanings are thought to have been born. In 1912, The American National Association of Jewelers created a birthstone list, which is accepted worldwide today as the definitive list of birthstones .

No matter what meaning or symbolism you choose to believe, incorporating one's gemstone into a custom engagement ring design is a surefire way to create a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. January Garnet: According to the American Gem Society, the birthstone for the month of January (and the Aquarius zodiac sign) is a garnet. The word garnet is said to be derived from the word granatum, which translates to seed. The pyrope garnet, which is widely recognized as the birthstone for January, was thought to resemble a pomegranate seed, and thus came the name for the gemstone. This particular stone dates back to 3100 B.C. Egypt. Today, the most common areas in the world where garnets are procured include Africa, South America and parts of Europe. February Amethyst: The color amethyst is a blend of violet and red hues. The gemstone has been acclaimed throughout history as one of the stones worn by royalty, especially during the Middle Ages. Amethysts are actually derived from quartz; to be considered real amethyst, the stones must be a medium purple hue with flecks of rose.

March Aquamarine: The birthstone for the first month of spring is aquamarine. This particular gemstone can range in color from an almost colorless pale blue to a shade of teal. The stone was believed to keep sailors safe during long voyages and ward off seasickness. The most valuable aquamarine stones are typically mined in Brazil, however, the stone is commonly found in Africa, Asia and parts of the Middle East. April Diamond: The top diamond mining location is Africa, followed by Venezuela, Australia, Brazil and Russia. Diamonds are considered one of the most prestigious of all the gemstones and are commonly used to for engagement rings, wedding bands and anniversary jewelry. May Emerald: The term emerald is derived from the Greek work, "smaragdus," which translates to "green." According to the American Gemstone Society, emeralds date back as far as 330 B.C., when they were discovered by the Egyptians. The finest emerald stones are procured in Brazil and Columbia. June Pearl: The official birthstone of the first month of summer is the pearl. This particular stone is the only gemstone that is derived from a sea creature, rather than in the ground.

Pearls have adorned royals for centuries, but it wasn't until the 1920s that the first cultured pearls hit the market, ultimately replacing natural stones. July Ruby: Rubies are derived from the species corundum and are extremely rare. Rubies have been found in many areas of the world, including India, East Africa, South America and the United States. August Peridot: The beautiful peridot gemstone is formed deep inside the earth and is only brought to the surface by volcanoes. Today, peridot gemstones can be found specifically in the states of Arizona and Hawaii, as well as Burma, Norway and on the Middle East. September Sapphire: Like rubies, the September gemstone sapphire is also a result of corundum. Sri Lanka and Madagascar are two countries that are well known for sapphire mining. October Tourmaline: The word tourmaline is derived from the Sri Lanka word, "tura mali," which roughly translates as "the stone of mixed colors." These stones are mined around the world, including South Africa, the United States, Afghanistan and Brazil, to name a few countries.

November Topaz: The birthstone of November is commonly referred to as imperial topaz due to the stones association with 18th and 19th century Russian czarinas. The orange and pink stone can be found in Brazil. December ​Tanzanite: Tanzanite is the birthstone for those born in December. The gemstone was found back in the 1960s in Tanzania and is often purchased as a substitute for sapphire stones.

Question: What is the most widely accepted gemstone for January?
Answer: Garnet